Modwood
Blacktown Building Supplies – Modwood Composite
A formaldehyde-free composite product manufactured by a proudly Australian company in Melbourne, Modwood is made from a mixture of recycled HDPE (plastic milk bottles) and ground sustainable wood waste (mostly Radiata pine offcuts that are a by-product of sawmilling). What they’ve produced is an aesthetically pleasing decking board that is low-maintenance and high-performing.
Modwood is versatile and easy to install and comes in a range of finishes, colours, and sizes that make it look great in any setting. The splinter-free nature of this product makes it ideal for use in areas where children will be spending a lot of time. What’s more, the fact that it has been designed with the toughest Australian weather conditions in mind means that this low-maintenance alternative to traditional timber will save you time and money in the long run.
Exhaustive testing has found Modwood products to be dramatically more resistant to attacks from two of Australia’s most common subterranean termites when compared to untreated hardwoods and softwoods. Slip resistance tests show that it is suitable for use in entries and access areas where the surface may get wet due to weather or other reasons.
While Modwood will not warp if it has been correctly fixed, it is not a suitable product for cladding as it requires spacing — both between and behind the planks — to ensure adequate ventilation and to allow the wood fibres the ability to dry out when they have gotten wet.
Modwood is highly protected against UV radiation; however, it should be noted that fading does still occur. The degree of fading will depend on a variety of factors, including whether it is installed with the brushed or smooth side facing up.
There are different varieties of Modwood best suited to different applications, which include Xtreme Guard, Flame Shield, and Marina Board Modwood as well as their standard decking boards. Installers should always be sure they’re using the correct product for each specific project and area.